What is a sabbatical?

sab·bat·i·cal
/səˈbadək(ə)l/

The Oxford Dictionary defines a sabbatical as “a period of paid leave granted to a university teacher or other worker for study or travel, traditionally one year for every seven years worked.” A more modern interpretation of this is “any extended period of leave from one’s customary work, especially for rest, to acquire new skills or training, etc.” (http://www.dictionary.com)

The definition that resonates with me is “to further your understanding of the world”.

So, what is the purpose of my sabbatical?

To further my understanding of the world and my place in it. It is time to figure out what matters to me and how it dictates the direction of my time, energy and passion.

Socrates stated “An unexamined life is not really worth living”.

Without self-reflection, we can never learn from our mistakes, condemned to repeat the same pattern over and over. Knowing your story means living a considered life.

What does this all mean? Am I just contemplating my navel? Watching Game of Thrones? Drinking wine and having long lunches?

November 2018 Update: After a fabulous 14 months of exploring what matters to me I rejoined the workforce. The challenge now is to maintain the balance and happiness I found during my sabbatical while working full time.